Search By First Name of HOFers
Turk Edwards
Inducted:
1969
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
255 lb (116 kg)
Born:
September 28, 1907
Mold, Washington, U.S.
Died:
January 10, 1973
Kirkland, Washington, U.S.
Position:
Tackle
College:
Washington State
Turk Edwards was one of the NFL’s original giants—both in size and in impact. A dominant two-way tackle during the 1930s, Edwards spent his entire nine-year career with the Boston/Washington franchise, helping establish the team as a perennial contender. Known for his strength, smarts, and clean play, he was a three-time All-NFL selection and a key part of Washington's first championship team.
His career ended in a freak injury during a coin toss in 1940, yet his legacy remained strong. Edwards was named to the NFL 1930s All-Decade Team and became a symbol of early pro football excellence. He later coached Washington and continued to shape the game from the sidelines. In 1969, he was honored as one of the inaugural inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Edwards' Awards and Honors
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1934, 1936, 1937)
- 70 Greatest Redskins
- First-team All-American (1930)
- 2× First-team All-PCC (1930, 1931)
NFL Records
- NFL champion (1937)
- Played entire 9-year career with one franchise – Boston/Washington
- Named to the NFL 1930s All-Decade Team
- NFL All-Star (1939)
NFL Teams
Boston Braves / Redskins / Washington Redskins (1932–1940)
Number Worn:
17
NFL Stats
Seasons:
9 (1932–1940)
Games played:
86
Starts:
77
Touchdowns:
2
Games Played:
86
Ty Law
Inducted:
2019
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
200 lb (91 kg)
Born:
February 10, 1974
Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Michigan (1992–1994)
Ty Law was one of the premier shutdown cornerbacks of his era, known for his physical coverage, football intelligence, and ability to rise in big moments. Drafted by the New England Patriots in 1995, Law became the cornerstone of a defense that powered the franchise’s early 2000s dynasty. His aggressive press coverage and knack for reading quarterbacks made him a constant threat to opposing offenses. Law played 15 NFL seasons with the Patriots, Jets, Chiefs, and Broncos, recording 53 interceptions, including five returned for touchdowns.
A three-time Super Bowl champion and five-time Pro Bowler, he was especially dominant in postseason play — his pick-six against Peyton Manning in the 2003 AFC Championship remains iconic. Law’s combination of toughness and leadership set the tone for New England’s defensive identity. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019, honored as one of the most complete cornerbacks of his generation.
Law's Awards and Honors
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1998, 2003)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1998, 2001–2003, 2005)
- 2× NFL interceptions leader (1998, 2005)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- First-team All-American (1994)
- 2× First-team All-Big Ten (1993, 1994)
NFL Records
- Led NFL in interceptions twice (1998, 2005)
- Scored 6 postseason interceptions, including 3 in Super Bowl runs
- Key defensive leader in Patriots’ first championship dynasty
NFL Teams
New England Patriots (1995–2004)
New York Jets (2005)
Kansas City Chiefs (2006–2007)
New York Jets (2008)
Denver Broncos (2009)
NFL Draft:
1995: 1st round, 23rd overall pick
New England Patriots
Number Worn:
24, 22, 26
NFL Stats
Seasons:
15 (1995–2009)
Games Played:
203
Game Started:
189
Total tackles:
845
Forced fumbles:
7
Fumble recoveries:
5
Passes defended:
108
Interceptions:
53
Defensive touchdowns:
7
Vince Lombardi
Inducted:
1971
Player Stats
Born:
June 11, 1913
Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
Died:
September 3, 1970
Washington, D.C., U.S.
Position:
Coach
General Manager
College:
Fordham
Vince Lombardi is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches and leaders in the history of the NFL. Known for his relentless pursuit of excellence, discipline, and integrity, Lombardi transformed the Green Bay Packers into a football dynasty during the 1960s. Under his command, the Packers won five NFL Championships in seven years, including victories in the first two Super Bowls (I and II).
His famous quote, “Winning isn’t everything; it’s the only thing,” captured his competitive spirit and drive for perfection. Lombardi’s coaching philosophy emphasized teamwork, preparation, and character, inspiring generations of players and coaches. His impact extended far beyond football, symbolizing leadership and perseverance in all walks of life. Lombardi passed away in 1970, leaving behind an unmatched legacy of success and integrity.
He was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971, and today, the Super Bowl trophy bears his name — the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Lombardi's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (I, II)
- 5× NFL champion (1961, 1962, 1965, 1966, 1967)
- 2× NFL Coach of the Year (1959, 1961)
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team (Coach)
Notable Achievements
- Led Packers to five championships in seven seasons
- Namesake of the Vince Lombardi Trophy
- Renowned for revolutionary leadership and motivational philosophy
NFL Teams
As Offensive coordinator
New York Giants (1954–1958)
As Head coach & general manager
Green Bay Packers (1959–1967)
As Head coach & executive vice president
Washington Redskins (1969)
NFL Stats
Coaching Career:
1959–1969
Game Managed:
136
Win:
96
Lose:
34
Tie:
6
Win(%):
73.8
Postseason Record:
9–1
Championships:
5 (NFL titles)
2 (Super Bowls I & II)
Walt Kiesling
Inducted:
1966
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
260 lb (118 kg)
Born:
May 27, 1903
Saint Paul, Minnesota, U.S.
Died:
March 2, 1962
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Guard
Coach
College:
St. Thomas (MN) (1923–1925)
Walt Kiesling was one of the early pillars of professional football, known for his strength, leadership, and lasting impact as both a player and coach. Born on May 25, 1903, he enjoyed a remarkable 13-season playing career as a powerful guard from 1926 to 1938 with the Duluth Eskimos, Chicago Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, and Pittsburgh Pirates (now Steelers).
Renowned for his toughness and blocking skill, Kiesling helped set the foundation for line play in the NFL’s formative years. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, spending more than two decades shaping teams and mentoring players. His dual success as a dominant lineman and respected coach earned him a place among football’s legends.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1966, Kiesling remains one of the few honored for his contributions in both roles.
Kiesling's Awards and Honors
- NFL champion (1936)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1929, 1930, 1932)
- Second-team All-Pro (1931)
- NFL 1920s All-Decade Team
- Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor
NFL Records
- One of the few Hall of Famers honored as both player and coach
- Helped the Packers win three straight NFL titles under Curly Lambeau
- Remembered for his toughness, discipline, and early influence on offensive line play
NFL Teams
As Player-
Duluth Eskimos (1926–1927)
Pottsville Maroons (1928)
Chicago Cardinals (1929–1933)
Chicago Bears (1934)
Green Bay Packers (1935–1936)
Pittsburgh Pirates (1937–1938)
As Coach-
Pittsburgh Pirates (1937–1938)
Pittsburgh Pirates / Steelers (1939–1942, 1949–1961)
Steagles (1943)
Card-Pitt (1944)
Green Bay Packers (1945–1948)
Number Worn:
16, 21, 18, 49, 25, 35
NFL Stats
Seasons:
13 (1926–1938)
Games Played:
125
Games Started:
81
Head coaching record-
Win:
30
Lose:
55
Win(%):
.361
Walter Jones
Inducted:
2014
Player Stats
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
325 lb (147 kg)
Born:
January 19, 1974
Aliceville, Alabama, U.S.
Position:
Offensive tackle
College:
Holmes CC (1993–1994)
Florida State (1995–1996)
Walter Jones was one of the most dominant offensive tackles in NFL history, known for his flawless technique, quick feet, and unmatched consistency. Drafted sixth overall by the Seattle Seahawks in 1997, Jones became the cornerstone of Seattle’s offensive line for over a decade. His combination of size, athleticism, and balance made him nearly impossible to beat in pass protection while also excelling as a run blocker.
Jones anchored an offense that powered Shaun Alexander’s 2005 MVP season and led the Seahawks to their first Super Bowl appearance. A quiet leader, he earned universal respect from teammates and opponents for his discipline and professionalism. Over 180 starts, he was penalized for holding only nine times—a testament to his precision and skill.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014, Walter Jones remains the gold standard for offensive tackles in the modern era.
Jones' Awards and Honors
- 4× First-team All-Pro (2001, 2004, 2005, 2007)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2006, 2008)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1999, 2001–2008)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Seattle Seahawks Ring of Honor
NFL Records
- Allowed only 23 sacks in 180 games
- Only 9 career holding penalties
- Anchored the Seahawks’ 2005 Super Bowl XL offensive line
- Widely regarded as one of the greatest left tackles in NFL history
NFL Teams
Seattle Seahawks (1997–2008)
NFL Draft:
1997: 1st round, 6th overall pick
Seattle Seahawks
Number Worn:
71
NFL Stats
Seasons:
1997–2009
Games Played:
180
Starts:
180
Fumble recoveries:
3
Walter Payton
Inducted:
1993
Player Stats
5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
200 lb (91 kg)
Born:
July 25, 1953
Columbia, Mississippi, U.S.
Died:
November 1, 1999
South Barrington, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Running back
College:
Jackson State (1971–1974)
Walter Payton, nicknamed “Sweetness,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Playing his entire 13-year career (1975–1987) with the Chicago Bears, Payton combined speed, agility, and durability with unmatched work ethic and versatility. He retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in rushing yards (16,726) and total touchdowns (110), records that stood for decades.
Known for his relentless determination, he could run, block, catch passes, and even throw the occasional touchdown, making him a complete offensive weapon. Payton’s leadership and character were equally remarkable, inspiring teammates and fans alike. He led the Bears to a Super Bowl XX victory in 1985, earning league-wide respect for his consistency and dominance.
Walter Payton was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993, leaving a legacy as both a record-breaking athlete and an iconic figure in football history.
Payton's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XX)
- NFL MVP (1977)
- 9× Pro Bowl Selection
- 5× First-Team All-Pro
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1978, 1979, 1986)
- Super Bowl XX Champion (1985)
- NFL 1970s & 1980s All-Decade Teams
NFL Records
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1977)
- NFL Man of the Year (1977)
- NFL rushing yards leader (1977)
- NFL rushing touchdowns leader (1977)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL all-time leading rusher at retirement
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1975–1987)
NFL Draft:
1975: 1st round, 4th overall pick
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
34
NFL Stats
Seasons:
13 (1975–1987)
Game Played:
190
Game Started:
184
Rushing yards:
16,726
Rushing average:
4.4
Rushing touchdowns:
110
Receptions:
492
Receiving yards:
4,538
Receiving touchdowns:
15
Warren Moon
Inducted:
2006
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
221 lb (100 kg)
Born:
November 18, 1956
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
West Los Angeles (1974)
Washington (1975–1977)
Warren Moon was one of the most prolific and trailblazing quarterbacks in football history, celebrated for his precision passing, leadership, and perseverance. After going undrafted and beginning his career in the Canadian Football League, Moon dominated with the Edmonton Eskimos, winning five straight Grey Cups (1978–1982) before joining the Houston Oilers in 1984. Overcoming barriers as one of the first African American quarterbacks to star in the NFL, Moon’s elegant deep ball and command of the pocket made him one of the league’s premier passers.
He threw for over 49,000 NFL yards and 70,000 combined career passing yards between the CFL and NFL — one of the most remarkable totals in football history. His career with Houston, Minnesota, Seattle, and Kansas City showcased unmatched longevity and skill. Warren Moon was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006, becoming the first undrafted quarterback and first Black quarterback ever enshrined, a testament to his excellence and impact.
Moon's Awards and Honors
- 9× Pro Bowl Selection
- 1× NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1990)
- 2× NFL Passing Yards Leader (1990, 1991)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- CFL Hall of Fame Inductee (2001)
NFL Records
- First African American quarterback inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Over 70,000 combined passing yards (CFL + NFL)
- NFL Man of the Year (1989)
- NFL passing touchdowns leader (1990)
- Pioneered the modern passing game with deep-ball precision
NFL Teams
Houston Oilers (1984–1993)
Minnesota Vikings (1994–1996)
Seattle Seahawks (1997–1998)
Kansas City Chiefs (1999–2000)
Warren Sapp
Inducted:
2013
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
300 lb (136 kg)
Born:
December 19, 1972
Orlando, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
Miami (1991–1994)
Warren Sapp was one of the most dominant and disruptive defensive tackles in NFL history, combining power, speed, and relentless intensity. Born in 1972, Sapp was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1995 and quickly became the cornerstone of their feared defense. Over his 13-year career with the Buccaneers and Oakland Raiders, he recorded 96.5 sacks — an extraordinary total for a defensive tackle. Sapp’s explosiveness off the snap and ability to penetrate offensive lines redefined interior line play.
He anchored the Buccaneers’ legendary 2002 defense, leading them to victory in Super Bowl XXXVII. A seven-time Pro Bowler and four-time First-Team All-Pro, Sapp was also named the 1999 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. His passion, energy, and trash talk made him one of the league’s most colorful figures, but his production spoke louder than words. Warren Sapp was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013.
Sapp's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XXXVII)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1999)
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1999–2002)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1997, 1998)
- 7× Pro Bowl (1997–2003)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor
NFL Records
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- Fourth all-time in sacks among defensive tackles
- Key leader of the 2002 Buccaneers’ historically dominant defense
- Revolutionized the “three-technique” defensive tackle role
- Known for elite first-step quickness and game-changing interior pressure
NFL Teams
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1995–2003)
Oakland Raiders (2004–2007)
NFL Draft:
1995: 1st round, 12th overall pick
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Number Worn:
99
NFL Stats
Seasons:
13 (1995–2007)
Games Played:
198
Game Started:
188
Tackles:
573
Sacks:
96.5
Forced fumbles:
19
Interceptions:
4
Total touchdowns:
3
Wayne Millner
Inducted:
1968
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
189 lb (86 kg)
Born:
January 31, 1913
Roxbury, Massachusetts, U.S.
Died:
November 19, 1976
Arlington, Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Offensive End
Coach
College:
Notre Dame
Wayne Millner was one of the most dependable and clutch receivers of the NFL’s early years, known for his sure hands, toughness, and consistency in big games. Playing his entire career with the Boston/Washington Redskins from 1936 to 1941 and again in 1945, Millner was a key part of the team’s rise to prominence during the pre-war era. He helped lead Washington to two NFL Championships (1937, 1942), making several crucial touchdown catches in title games that cemented his reputation as a dependable playmaker under pressure.
Though not the flashiest receiver of his time, Millner was admired for his precision routes, strong blocking, and team-first mentality — traits that made him invaluable to both the offense and defense in the league’s ironman era. After his playing days, he contributed as a coach, continuing his lifelong devotion to the game. Wayne Millner was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1968, honoring his leadership and championship legacy.
Millner's Awards and Honors
- 2× NFL Champion (1937, 1942)
- NFL 1930s All-Decade Team
- 80 Greatest Redskins
- Redskins Ring of Fame
- Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
NFL Records
- Scored two touchdowns in the 1937 NFL Championship Game
- Known for clutch catches in title games
- One of Washington’s earliest offensive stars
NFL Teams
As Player-
Boston / Washington Redskins (1936–1941, 1945)
As Coach-
Chicago Hornets (1949)
Baltimore Colts (1950)
Philadelphia Eagles (1951)
Washington Redskins (1952–1956)
NFL Draft:
1936: 8th round, 65th overall pick
Boston / Washington Redskins
Number Worn:
40
NFL Stats
Seasons:
7 (1936–1941, 1945)
Games played:
76
Games started:
52
Receptions:
124
Receiving yards:
1,578
Receiving touchdowns:
12
Weeb Ewbank
Inducted:
1978
Player Stats
Born:
May 6, 1907
Richmond, Indiana, U.S.
Died:
November 17, 1998
Oxford, Ohio, U.S.
Position:
Coach
College:
Miami (OH)
Weeb Ewbank made history as the only head coach to win championships in both the NFL and AFL. Known for his calm leadership and tactical smarts, Ewbank guided the Baltimore Colts to back-to-back NFL titles in 1958 and 1959, including the iconic 1958 “Greatest Game Ever Played.” Later, he took over the struggling New York Titans (soon to be Jets) and, in 1969, led Joe Namath and the Jets to a shocking Super Bowl III victory over the heavily favored Colts—arguably the biggest upset in football history. Over 20 seasons, Ewbank compiled 134 career wins and was respected for developing players and building competitive teams from the ground up. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978 for his lasting impact on both leagues.
Ewbank's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (III)
- 2× NFL champion (1958, 1959)
- NFL Coach of the Year (1958)
- New York Jets Ring of Honor
- New York Jets Jacket retired
- Indiana Football Hall of Fame
NFL Records
- Only head coach to win both an NFL Championship and a Super Bowl
- Head coach in the “Greatest Game Ever Played”
- Super Bowl III Champion (1968 season)
NFL Teams
Baltimore Colts (1954–1962)
New York Jets (1963–1973)
NFL Stats
Seasons:
20 (1954–1973)
Win:
134
Lose:
130
Tie:
7
Win(%):
.502
NFL Champion:
1958, 1959
Wellington Mara
Inducted:
1997
Player Stats
Born:
August 14, 1916
Rochester, New York, U.S.
Died:
October 25, 2005
Rye, New York, U.S.
Position:
Team Owner
College:
Fordham
Wellington Mara was one of the most respected and influential figures in NFL history, serving as co-owner of the New York Giants for over six decades. The son of Giants founder Tim Mara, Wellington joined the organization as a teenager and helped guide it through eras of transformation, both on and off the field. His leadership was marked by loyalty, fairness, and a deep commitment to the game’s integrity. Under his stewardship, the Giants became one of the league’s most stable and successful franchises, winning six NFL Championships and two Super Bowls.
Beyond team success, Mara played a key role in shaping the NFL’s rise to prominence, particularly through his advocacy for revenue sharing, which ensured league-wide parity and growth. Revered by players, coaches, and executives alike, Wellington Mara embodied class and sportsmanship throughout his life. In recognition of his lifelong contributions, Wellington Mara was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997.
Mara's Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl Champion (XXI, XXV)
- 6× NFL Champion (pre-Super Bowl era)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame (1997)
- New York Giants Ring of Honor
Notable Achievements
- Instrumental in implementing NFL revenue sharing
- Served more than 60 years in NFL leadership
- Respected as one of the league’s most influential owners and ambassadors
NFL Teams
New York Giants (1959–2005)
NFL Stats
Executive Tenure:
1937–2005
Franchise:
New York Giants
NFL Championships:
4 (1927, 1934, 1938, 1956)
Super Bowl champion:
2 (XXI, XXV)
Will Shields
Inducted:
2015
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
320 lb (145 kg)
Born:
September 15, 1971
Fort Riley, Kansas, U.S.
Position:
Guard
College:
Nebraska
Will Shields became one of the most durable and technically sound guards in NFL history, building a legendary career with the Kansas City Chiefs. Drafted in 1993, he immediately earned a starting role and never missed a single game in 14 seasons. Shields was known for his balance, power, and discipline, excelling in both run blocking and pass protection while anchoring some of the league’s most productive offenses. His reliability helped produce multiple 1,000-yard rushers and kept Kansas City among the NFL’s top rushing teams for much of his career.
Shields earned 12 straight Pro Bowl selections, one of the highest totals ever for an offensive lineman, and was widely respected for his leadership on and off the field. His consistency, professionalism, and elite technique made him a model of excellence for modern guards. Will Shields was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest interior linemen of all time.
Shields' Awards and Honors
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2003)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1999, 2002, 2003)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1997, 2004–2006)
- 12× Pro Bowl (1995–2006)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- Never missed a game in his entire 14-year career
- One of only a few linemen with 12 straight Pro Bowl selections
- Core blocker for multiple top-ranked rushing offenses
NFL Teams
Kansas City Chiefs (1993–2006)
NFL Draft:
1993: 3rd round, 74th overall pick
Kansas City Chiefs
Number Worn:
68
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1993–2006)
Games Played:
224
Games Started:
223
Fumble recoveries:
9
Super Bowl Wins:
12 (1995–2006)
Willie Brown
Inducted:
1984
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
195 lb (88 kg)
Born:
December 2, 1940
Yazoo City, Mississippi, U.S.
Died:
October 21, 2019
Tracy, California, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Grambling (1959–1962)
Willie Brown was a trailblazing cornerback whose physical style and instincts helped redefine pass defense in the NFL. Undrafted in 1963, Brown defied the odds and became a star with the Denver Broncos before finding his legendary home with the Oakland Raiders.
Known for his bump-and-run coverage and aggressive play, Brown was a cornerstone of the Raiders’ defense for over a decade. His most iconic moment came in Super Bowl XI, when he returned an interception 75 yards for a touchdown, sealing the win and delivering one of the most memorable plays in NFL history.
A five-time AFL All-Star and four-time Pro Bowler, Brown finished his career with 54 interceptions. After retiring, he remained with the Raiders in coaching and executive roles, continuing his legacy off the field. Brown was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984.
Brown's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XI)
- AFL champion (1967)
- 3× First-team All-AFL (1964, 1968, 1969)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1971, 1973)
- Second-team All-AFL (1967)
- Second-team All-Pro (1972)
- 5× AFL All-Star (1964, 1965, 1967–1969)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1970–1973)
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- AFL All-Time Team
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XV, XVIII)
- Most passes intercepted in a game: 4 (tied)
NFL/AFL Teams
As Player
Houston Oilers (1963)
Denver Broncos (1963–1966)
Oakland Raiders (1967–1978)
As Coach
Oakland / Los Angeles Raiders (1979–1988)
Defensive backs coach
Long Beach State (1991)
Jordan HS (CA) (1994)
AFL draft:
1963: Undraftedth round
Numbers Worn:
81
NFL Stats
Games Played:
204
Game Started:
185
Interceptions:
54
Interception Return Yards:
472
Touchdowns:
2 (including a Super Bowl TD)
Fumble Recoveries:
4
Super Bowl Appearances:
3 (II, XI, XV)
Super Bowl Champion:
1× (XI)
Willie Davis
Inducted:
1981
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
243 lb (110 kg)
Born:
July 24, 1934
Lisbon, Louisiana, U.S.
Died:
April 15, 2020
Santa Monica, California, U.S.
Position:
Defensive End
College:
Grambling (1954–1957)
Willie Davis was a cornerstone of the Green Bay Packers’ dynasty under Vince Lombardi. Originally drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1956, Davis found his true impact after being traded to the Packers in 1960. A dominant defensive end, Davis became the heart of a defense that helped lead Green Bay to five NFL Championships, including victories in the first two Super Bowls.
Renowned for his intelligence, leadership, and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, Davis was estimated to have recorded over 100 career sacks, though sacks were not an official stat during his playing days. He was also the first African American team captain in Packers history.
Durable and dependable, Davis never missed a game in ten seasons with Green Bay, earning widespread respect on and off the field. His consistency and championship pedigree cemented his legacy as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history.
Davis' Awards and Honors
- 2× Super Bowl champion (I, II)
- 5× NFL champion (1961, 1962, 1965–1967)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1962, 1964–1967)
- Second-team All-Pro (1963)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1963–1967)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- NFF Distinguished American Award (1982)
- Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
NFL Records
- Member of the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- One of the few players to win both Super Bowl I and II
- Five NFL Championships (tied for most by a defensive player)
- First African American team captain in Green Bay Packers history
NFL Teams
Cleveland Browns (1958–1959)
Green Bay Packers (1960–1969)
NHL Draft:
1956: 15th round, 181st pick
Cleveland Browns
Number Worn:
77, 87
NFL Stats
NFL Seasons:
12 (1958–1969)
Games Played:
162
Estimated Career Sacks:
100+ (unofficial)
Fumble Recoveries:
22
Interceptions:
1
Willie Lanier
Inducted:
1986
Player Stats
6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
245 lb (111 kg)
Born:
August 21, 1945
Clover, Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
College:
Morgan State (1963–1966)
Willie Lanier was a trailblazing middle linebacker who brought power, intelligence, and leadership to the Kansas City Chiefs defense during the late 1960s and 1970s. Known for his punishing tackles and instinctive play, Lanier became the NFL’s first African American to start at middle linebacker — a position demanding both physical and mental command of the game. He anchored a defense that led the Chiefs to victory in Super Bowl IV, solidifying their place among football’s elite.
Over his 11-season career, Lanier recorded 27 interceptions and 18 fumble recoveries, remarkable numbers for a linebacker of his era. Beyond his on-field dominance, he was respected for his professionalism and strategic understanding of the game. Lanier was named to eight Pro Bowls and three First-Team All-Pro selections. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986, celebrated as one of the most complete linebackers in NFL history.
Lanier's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (IV)
- 8× All-Pro (1968–1975)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1970–1975)
- NFL Man of the Year (1972)
- 2× AFL All-Star (1968, 1969)
- 2× All-AFL (1968, 1969)
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- First African American starting middle linebacker in NFL history
- Leader of Chiefs’ dominant defense in Super Bowl IV
- Renowned for combining physical dominance with exceptional football intellect
NFL Teams
Kansas City Chiefs (1967–1977)
NFL Draft:
1967: 2nd round, 50th overall pick
Kansas City Chiefs
Number Worn:
63
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1967–1977)
Games Played:
149
Games Started:
105
Interceptions:
27
Touchdowns:
2
Fumble recoveries:
18
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NFL Hall of Fame
The NFL Hall of Fame, also known as the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is where the legacies of NFL legends and their contributions to football history are celebrated. Located in Canton, Ohio, this iconic institution honors the greatest players, coaches, and contributors through its annual Hall of Fame enshrinement and NFL Hall of Fame ceremony. From the NFL Hall of Fame Class of 2025 and its nominees to the unforgettable Hall of Fame speeches, each year brings new highlights and moments that capture the spirit of the game. Featuring Hall of Fame players, coaches, and even legendary quarterbacks, the Hall showcases the rich history of football with exhibits, stories of remarkable careers, and events like the NFL Hall of Fame game. A visit to the Hall is a journey through the most iconic NFL greats, their achievements, and the unforgettable Hall of Fame moments that define the sport we love. 🏈✨